My Mission is to
Helping you connect deeper with Japan—through curated trips, cultural insight, and personal connection
I will serve you as your:
Trip Advisor
Trip Coordinator
Personal Interpretor/Translator
OR However You Need Me As!
About Mikino
After working in both Japanese and American corporate and hospitality settings, I stopped trying to fit into one box. Instead, I realized — I could bridge the two. I am the connector and the translator — of language, culture, and values.
As Japan evolves, so do the opportunities. But you have to remember that Japan is enriched with cultures and traditions that needs to be preserved to continue honoring the uniqueness and beauty of Japan. If your intention and your alignment fits with me, contact me and let's make things work!
Whether you're a business owner, creative, or brand seeking to collaborate with Japan, I will help you move forward with clarity and deep cultural respect.
I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to help others connect with Japan — it’s something I’ve been living for most of my life.
I was born in rural Japan and raised in Hawai‘i — two places rich in tradition, culture, and deep respect for the land and community.
I spent years feeling like I had to choose between the two countries (Japan and USA). But I eventually realized: I’m not between worlds — I can be the bridge.
Whether I’m helping a creative understand Japanese etiquette, guiding a brand through partnership strategy, or curating a countryside trip — my mission is the same: to build real, respectful relationships with Japan.
That’s why I started this service — not just for travel, but to build trust between cultures.
My services are unique compared to other travel companies, business consultancy, or traditional recruiting companies because I genuinely care about you and want to make sure you are in the good hands.
My name is Mikino Kumagai,
I’m Japanese, born and raised in Iwate Prefecture until I was ten. In 2008, my life changed dramatically when I moved to Hawaii without knowing any English. Adapting to a new environment, family, culture, and language was a challenge, but it led to me becoming fluent in both English and Japanese—who knew I’d be bilingual?
I graduated from Beloit College, a small liberal arts school in Wisconsin. My time in the Midwest and participating in an exchange program allowed me to travel the world and embrace diverse cultures. This journey has shaped my identity as a multicultural person.
My passion is to share Japan’s hidden gems—its lesser-known traditions, cultures, and landscapes—with those who are eager to go beyond the usual tourist paths. I want to help you immerse yourself in the true essence of Japan, connecting with the heart of its people and the beauty of its quieter regions.
If you're ready to experience Japan in a way that most visitors never do—interacting with locals, engaging in authentic cultural practices, and embracing the Japanese language—let’s connect. Don’t just visit Japan, experience and carry those memories with you.”